Glycemic control and associated factors among type 2 diabetes patients attending at Dessie comprehensive specialized hospital outpatient department

Effective glycemic control is essential for managing diabetes-related complications. While studies in Ethiopia have shown poor glycemic control based on fasting blood glucose levels, further research using the glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) test is necessary. This study aimed to evaluate glycemic control and identify associated factors among patients with type 2 diabetes. A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted from February 1 to March 30, 2023, involving 465 type 2 diabetes patients. Socio-demographic and clinical data were collected using a semi-structured questionnaire through consecutive sampling. Laboratory tests, including glycated hemoglobin, fasting blood sugar, renal function, and lipid profiles, were performed. Data analysis was carried out using Epi-data version 4.6.0.4 and SPSS version 26, employing descriptive statistics and binary logistic regression. Multivariable analysis was performed on variables with P < 0.25. The results were presented using numbers, frequencies, and tables. Approximately 73.5% (95% CI = 69.5, 77.4) of the patients demonstrated poor glycemic control. Factors associated with poor glycemic control were lack of formal education (AOR = 4.94, 95% CI = 2.99, 8.15), obesity (AOR = 5.32, 95% CI = 2.02, 14.04), overweight (AOR = 3.77, 95% CI = 1.65, 8.63), high total cholesterol (AOR = 7.79, 95% CI = 4.44, 13.66), and a diabetes duration of more than 10 years (AOR = 3.32, 95% CI = 1.87, 5.89). The research highlights a significant proportion of diabetic patients with inadequate glycemic control, which is associated with factors such as education level, BMI, total cholesterol, and the duration of diabetes. Addressing these factors through personalized management strategies is essential for improving glycemic control and reducing complications.